<p>Hello all,</p>
<p>I'm applying to Yale and torn between essay topics. I'm thinking of writing about the death penalty for the common application question on an issue of local/national/international concern. Is it advisable to write about something quite sensitive in a college application essay? </p>
<p>The other topic I'm considering is the one on discussing the influence a creative work has on me. Any help is greatly appreciated!</p>
<p>I'd go with the creative influence, since it reveals more about yourself, which is the entire point of the essay.</p>
<p>I'd go with the creative influence one. It's better to avoid controversial topics, unless its had some impact on your life that you feel the need to explain. Those types of essays can go badly awry.</p>
<p>i'd go with the creative one too. Less standard, in any case. Unless you've been on death row. But then, I guess you wouldn't be applying to Yale...</p>